METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR INSERTING A CART, SUCH AS A CART WITH ONE OR MORE FIXED WHEELS, INTO AN ENCLOSURE

A method of loading a cart into an enclosure, according to various embodiments of the invention, comprises the steps of: (A) providing a cart having a first end and a second end, the cart comprising at least one swiveled wheel adjacent the first end, and at least two non-swiveled wheels adjacent the second end, the swiveled and non-swiveled wheels being adapted to facilitate the rolling movement of the cart over a surface; (B) positioning the at least two non-swiveled wheels on a wheeled platform so that the non-swiveled wheels are supported by the wheeled platform; and (C) while the non-swiveled wheels are supported by the wheeled platform, and while the at least one swiveled wheel is disposed on a support surface adjacent an interior portion of the enclosure, using the wheeled platform and the at least one swiveled wheel to roll the cart into the interior portion of the enclosure.

ITEM DISPENSING APPARATUS

Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a dispenser configured for storing one or more items and dispensing the stored items to authorized users. According to various embodiments, the dispenser generally includes a housing defining an interior portion dimensioned to receive a plurality of items and an access assembly configured to prevent unauthorized user access to the interior portion of the dispenser while providing selective access to certain items in response to input received from an authorized user. According to various embodiments, the access assembly comprises a pair of flexible barriers coupled to a sliding door assembly, which includes one or more lockable access doors. Together, the door assembly and flexible barriers prevent access to the interior of the dispenser when in a locked configuration and permit access to certain items when in an unlocked configuration. 1. A dispenser for storing one or more items and providing selective access to the stored items , the dispenser comprising:a housing defining at least one access opening and at least one interior portion dimensioned for receiving the one or more items; a door assembly slidably connected to the housing and configured for lateral movement relative to the housing, the door assembly defining at least one access door adjustable between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration, wherein the access door provides user access to the interior portion of the housing when in the unlocked configuration;', 'a first flexible barrier extending between the housing and a first side of the door assembly; and', 'a second flexible barrier extending between the housing a second side of the door assembly., 'an access assembly operatively connected to the housing and configured for permitting selective user access to the one or more items in the interior portion of the housing, the access assembly comprising2. The dispenser of claim 1 , wherein the housing further comprises an upper ...

Item dispensing apparatus

Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a dispenser configured for storing one or more items and dispensing the stored items to authorized users. According to various embodiments, the dispenser generally includes a housing defining an interior portion dimensioned to receive a plurality of items and an access assembly configured to prevent unauthorized user access to the interior portion of the dispenser while providing selective access to certain items in response to input received from an authorized user. According to various embodiments, the access assembly comprises a pair of flexible barriers coupled to a sliding door assembly, which includes one or more lockable access doors. Together, the door assembly and flexible barriers prevent access to the interior of the dispenser when in a locked configuration and permit access to certain items when in an unlocked configuration.

Item dispensing apparatus

Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a dispenser configured for securely storing a plurality of items within a cart and providing access to a subset of the plurality of items to authorized users. According to various embodiments, the dispenser generally includes a housing defining an interior portion dimensioned to receive a storage cart having an array of receptacles each configured to hold one or more items, a laterally sliding access door configured to provide restricted access to the cart stored within the dispenser, and an item access mechanism configured to provide selective access to a subset of the plurality of items stored within the cart. The dispenser additionally comprises a cart guide mechanism and a cart locking mechanism configured to guide the cart into the housing and to secure the cart in an appropriate location within the housing for use with the item access mechanism.

ITEM DISPENSING APPARATUS

Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a dispenser configured for storing one or more items and dispensing the stored items to authorized users. According to various embodiments, the dispenser generally includes a housing defining an interior portion dimensioned to receive a plurality of items and an access assembly configured to prevent unauthorized user access to the interior portion of the dispenser while providing selective access to certain items in response to input received from an authorized user. According to various embodiments, the access assembly comprises a pair of flexible barriers coupled to a sliding door assembly, which includes one or more lockable access doors. Together, the door assembly and flexible barriers prevent access to the interior of the dispenser when in a locked configuration and permit access to certain items when in an unlocked configuration. 1. A dispenser for storing a plurality of items and providing selective access to the stored items , the dispenser comprising: a plurality of item receptacles configured for storing one or more items, wherein the plurality of item receptacles are arranged in a grid defining item receptacle rows and item receptacle columns; and', 'a plurality of door locking features each corresponding to at least one item receptacle column; and, 'a housing defining at least one access opening and at least one interior portion defining a movable configuration in which the door assembly is free to move laterally across the access opening; and', 'an immobile configuration in which the door assembly is locked in alignment with at least one of the item receptacle columns to permit user access to at least one item receptacle within the aligned item receptacle columns., 'an access assembly comprising a door assembly laterally moveable across the access opening and configured for permitting selective access to items disposed in the plurality of item receptacles, the door assembly comprising a ...

Methods and apparatus for increasing the speed of dispensing articles from vending machines

Improvements to increase the speed at which a vending machine can dispense articles are disclosed. In various embodiments, the machine defines plural first arrays of receptacles for receiving articles with the first arrays stacked so that adjacent receptacles in the first arrays form second arrays. A separate user door closes each first array of receptacles, a slot door assembly provides a plurality of receptacle doors operative to open a particular receptacle when the user door is unlocked, and a slot access mechanism provides access to a particular receptacle. The machine waits a specified time period after dispensing to detect whether a subsequent user request is received. If a subsequent user request is received, the machine moves the slot access mechanism directly to a receptacle where the articles are available. Additional improvements include procedures for avoiding problems caused by misaligned doors and procedures for providing optimal article stocking.

Item dispensing apparatus

Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a dispenser configured for storing one or more items and dispensing the stored items to authorized users. According to various embodiments, the dispenser generally includes a housing defining an interior portion dimensioned to receive a plurality of items and an access assembly configured to prevent unauthorized user access to the interior portion of the dispenser while providing selective access to certain items in response to input received from an authorized user. According to various embodiments, the access assembly comprises a pair of flexible barriers coupled to a sliding door assembly, which includes one or more lockable access doors. Together, the door assembly and flexible barriers prevent access to the interior of the dispenser when in a locked configuration and permit access to certain items when in an unlocked configuration.

Item dispensing apparatus

Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a dispenser configured for storing one or more items and dispensing the stored items to authorized users. According to various embodiments, the dispenser generally includes a housing defining an interior portion dimensioned to receive one or more items and a laterally sliding access door comprised of a flexible barrier configured to provide restricted access to items stored within the dispenser. In various embodiments, the dispenser also includes a biasing system configured bias the access door to a closed position.

ITEM DISPENSING APPARATUS

Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a dispenser configured for storing one or more items and dispensing the stored items to authorized users. According to various embodiments, the dispenser generally includes a housing defining an interior portion dimensioned to receive one or more items and a laterally sliding access door comprised of a flexible barrier configured to provide restricted access to items stored within the dispenser. In various embodiments, the dispenser also includes a biasing system configured bias the access door to a closed position. 1. A dispenser for storing one or more items and providing selective access to the items , the dispenser comprising:a housing defining an access opening and an interior portion dimensioned for receiving the one or more items;at least one upper horizontal support member disposed adjacent an upper perimeter of the access opening; and a flexible barrier; and', (i) a closed position in which the access door prevents access to one or more items stored within the interior portion of the housing through the access opening, and', '(ii) an open position in which the access door permits access to one or more items stored within the interior portion of the housing through the access opening., 'a plurality of door attachment members disposed adjacent an upper edge of the flexible barrier and engaged with the upper horizontal support member, wherein the plurality of door attachment members are configured to slide relative to the upper horizontal support member and permit the access door to move laterally to], 'an access door disposed adjacent the access opening, the access door comprising2. The dispenser of claim 1 , wherein the access door further comprises at least one vertical support member operatively connected to the housing and configured to slide laterally between a first lateral side of the access opening and a second lateral side of the access opening; andwherein a first side edge of the flexible ...

ITEM DISPENSING APPARATUS

Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a dispenser configured for storing one or more items and dispensing the stored items to authorized users. According to various embodiments, the dispenser generally includes a housing defining an interior portion dimensioned to receive one or more items and a laterally sliding access door comprised of a flexible barrier configured to provide restricted access to items stored within the dispenser. In various embodiments, the dispenser also includes a biasing system configured bias the access door to a closed position.

ITEM DISPENSING APPARATUS

Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a dispenser configured for storing one or more items and dispensing the stored items to authorized users. According to various embodiments, the dispenser generally includes a housing defining an interior portion dimensioned to receive a plurality of items and an access assembly configured to prevent unauthorized user access to the interior portion of the dispenser while providing selective access to certain items in response to input received from an authorized user. According to various embodiments, the access assembly comprises a pair of flexible barriers coupled to a sliding door assembly, which includes one or more lockable access doors. Together, the door assembly and flexible barriers prevent access to the interior of the dispenser when in a locked configuration and permit access to certain items when in an unlocked configuration. 1. A dispenser for storing a plurality of items and providing selective access to the stored items , the dispenser comprising: a plurality of item receptacles configured for storing one or more items, wherein the plurality of item receptacles are arranged in a grid defining item receptacle rows and item receptacle columns; and', 'a plurality of door locking features each corresponding to at least one item receptacle column; and, 'a housing defining at least one access opening and at least one interior portion defining a movable configuration in which the door assembly is free to move laterally across the access opening; and', 'an immobile configuration in which the door assembly is locked in alignment with at least one of the item receptacle columns to permit user access to at least one item receptacle within the aligned item receptacle columns., 'an access assembly comprising a door assembly laterally moveable across the access opening and configured for permitting selective access to items disposed in the plurality of item receptacles, the door assembly comprising a ...

Item receiving systems and methods

An item receiving apparatus that, in various embodiments, comprises: (1) a housing defining an interior storage area and an opening through which at least one item may be received for storage within the interior storage area; (2) an item support surface disposed adjacent the interior storage area for supporting one or more items as the items are stored within the interior storage area; (3) an item repositioning assembly disposed between the opening and the item support surface. The item receiving apparatus may be adapted to move the item repositioning assembly from a first orientation to a second orientation in response to the occurrence of a pre-determined event. The item repositioning assembly may be adapted to push one or more items within the storage area laterally away from at least a portion of the item repositioning assembly as the item repositioning assembly is moved from the first orientation to the second orientation.

APPARATUS FOR INSERTING A CART, SUCH AS A CART WITH ONE OR MORE FIXED WHEELS, INTO AN ENCLOSURE

A dispenser having an interior portion that is dimensioned for receiving a wheeled cart that is configured for storing items to be dispensed from the dispenser. The cart may, for example, be supported by at least two non-swiveled wheels disposed adjacent a first end of the cart and at least one swiveled wheel disposed adjacent a second end of the cart. In particular embodiments, the dispenser includes a pivotable wheel support that is adapted for: (A) supporting the cart's non-swiveled wheels; and (B) while supporting these non-swiveled wheels in respective, substantially fixed positions relative to the pivotable wheel support, pivoting from: (1) a first position in which the cart is positioned outside the dispenser; to (2) a second position in which the cart is positioned within the dispenser's interior. This may assist in loading the cart into the dispenser.

APPARATUS FOR INSERTING A CART, SUCH AS A CART WITH ONE OR MORE FIXED WHEELS, INTO AN ENCLOSURE

A cart positioning assembly that is adapted for guiding a wheeled cart into a desired target cart position within an enclosure (e.g., a dispenser) by engaging a body portion of the cart and thereby guiding the movement of the body portion as the cart moves into the target cart position. In particular embodiments: (1) the cart includes at least one front fixed wheel and at least one swiveled rear wheel; (2) the front fixed wheel is in a target fixed-wheel position when the cart is in the target cart position; (3) the swiveled rear wheel is in a target swiveled-wheel position when the cart is in the target cart position; (4) the cart positioning assembly is adapted to facilitate a sliding movement of the fixed wheel into the target fixed-wheel position; and (5) the cart positioning assembly is adapted to facilitate a rolling movement of the swiveled wheel into the target swiveled-wheel position.

Item dispensing apparatus

Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a dispenser configured for storing one or more items and dispensing the stored items to authorized users. According to various embodiments, the dispenser generally includes a housing defining an interior portion dimensioned to receive a plurality of items and an access assembly configured to prevent unauthorized user access to the interior portion of the dispenser while providing selective access to certain items in response to input received from an authorized user. According to various embodiments, the access assembly comprises a pair of flexible barriers coupled to a sliding door assembly, which includes one or more lockable access doors. Together, the door assembly and flexible barriers prevent access to the interior of the dispenser when in a locked configuration and permit access to certain items when in an unlocked configuration.

Item dispensing apparatus

A dispenser configured for securely storing a plurality of items within a cart and providing access to a subset of the plurality of items to authorized users. The dispenser generally includes a housing defining an interior portion dimensioned to receive a storage cart having an array of receptacles each configured to hold one or more items, a laterally sliding access door configured to provide restricted access to the cart stored within the dispenser, and an item access mechanism configured to provide selective access to a subset of the plurality of items stored within the cart. The dispenser additionally comprises a cart guide mechanism and a cart locking mechanism configured to guide the cart into the housing and to secure the cart in an appropriate location within the housing for use with the item access mechanism.

Reduced friction flexible door

A reduced friction, quiet, flexible door for use with dispensers and enclosures such as garages and warehouses. The door preferably comprises a first slat, a second slat, and one or more flexible elongate members for maintaining the first slat relative to the second slat so that when the flexible door is in a closed position, the first slat is spaced apart from the second slat. The door is preferably also configured to maintain the first slat relative to the second slat so that the first slat does not contact the second slat as the door is moved between an open and a closed position. In one embodiment of the invention, the door comprises three or more slats that are linked together so that they do not substantially engage each other while the door is closed or while the door is being moved between an open and a closed position.

Compact dispenser with flexible door

A compact automated dispenser for quickly and quietly dispensing hospital linens or other items while tracking the dispenser's inventory. The dispenser preferably includes a flexible “roll-up door” that opens by rolling onto a door support, such as a roller, within the top portion of the dispenser. This makes it possible to open the door without swinging the door outwardly from the front surface of the dispenser. Alternatively, the door may be mounted on tracks to slide into the dispenser when the door is opened. A control system controls access to items within the dispenser, and closes the door automatically in response to one or more predetermined events. Such predetermined events include: (1) the passage of a pre-determined period of time; (2) a user activating a “close door” button; or (3) a sensor failing to detect the presence of a user within the proximity of the dispenser for a pre-determined period of time.

ITEM DISPENSING APPARATUS

Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a dispenser configured for securely storing a plurality of items within a cart and providing access to a subset of the plurality of items to authorized users. According to various embodiments, the dispenser generally includes a housing defining an interior portion dimensioned to receive a storage cart having an array of receptacles each configured to hold one or more items, a laterally sliding access door configured to provide restricted access to the cart stored within the dispenser, and an item access mechanism configured to provide selective access to a subset of the plurality of items stored within the cart. The dispenser additionally comprises a cart guide mechanism and a cart locking mechanism configured to guide the cart into the housing and to secure the cart in an appropriate location within the housing for use with the item access mechanism. 1. A system for dispensing items , the system comprising:a cart comprising a cart body configured for storing one or more items; and a housing defining an access opening and an interior portion dimensioned for receiving the cart;', 'an access door disposed adjacent the access opening, the access door configured for movement between (i) a closed position in which the access door prevents access to the cart when the cart is stored within the interior area of the housing and (ii) an open position in which the access door permits access to the cart when stored within the interior area of the housing; and', 'a cart guide mechanism comprising a rear guide rail extending along a rear portion of the housing and an angled guide rail extending between the rear portion of the housing and a first side portion of the housing;', 'wherein the angled guide rail is configured to guide the cart to a desired position within the dispenser where a first side wall of the cart body is substantially adjacent to a second side portion of the housing opposite the first side portion, ...

METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR INCREASING THE SPEED OF DISPENSING ARTICLES FROM VENDING MACHINES

Improvements to increase the speed at which a vending machine can dispense articles are disclosed. In various embodiments, the machine defines plural first arrays of receptacles for receiving articles with the first arrays stacked so that adjacent receptacles in the first arrays form second arrays. A separate user door closes each first array of receptacles, a slot door assembly provides a plurality of receptacle doors operative to open a particular receptacle when the user door is unlocked, and a slot access mechanism provides access to a particular receptacle. The machine waits a specified time period after dispensing to detect whether a subsequent user request is received. If a subsequent user request is received, the machine moves the slot access mechanism directly to a receptacle where the articles are available. Additional improvements include procedures for avoiding problems caused by misaligned doors and procedures for providing optimal article stocking.

ITEM DISPENSING APPARATUS

Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a dispenser configured for securely storing a plurality of items within a cart and providing access to a subset of the plurality of items to authorized users. According to various embodiments, the dispenser generally includes a housing defining an interior portion dimensioned to receive a storage cart having an array of receptacles each configured to hold one or more items, a laterally sliding access door configured to provide restricted access to the cart stored within the dispenser, and an item access mechanism configured to provide selective access to a subset of the plurality of items stored within the cart. The dispenser additionally comprises a cart guide mechanism and a cart locking mechanism configured to guide the cart into the housing and to secure the cart in an appropriate location within the housing for use with the item access mechanism.

Item dispensing apparatus

Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a dispenser configured for securely storing a plurality of items within a cart and providing access to a subset of the plurality of items to authorized users. According to various embodiments, the dispenser generally includes a housing defining an interior portion dimensioned to receive a storage cart having an array of receptacles each configured to hold one or more items, a laterally sliding access door configured to provide restricted access to the cart stored within the dispenser, and an item access mechanism configured to provide selective access to a subset of the plurality of items stored within the cart. The dispenser additionally comprises a cart guide mechanism and a cart locking mechanism configured to guide the cart into the housing and to secure the cart in an appropriate location within the housing for use with the item access mechanism.

Guides and other apparatus for inserting a cart, such as a cart with one or more fixed wheels, into an enclosure

Various embodiments of the wheel positioning assembly are adapted for facilitating the insertion of a cart into an enclosure. In certain embodiments, the cart comprises: (1) first and second fixed front wheels that are disposed adjacent opposite front lateral sides of the cart; and (2) first and second swiveled rear wheels disposed adjacent opposite lateral side of the cart. In various embodiments, the wheel positioning assembly comprises: (1) a first wheel guide for physically guiding the first, fixed front wheel into a desired first-front-wheel position in which the first front wheel is disposed within the dispenser and adjacent a first wheel barrier; and (2) a locking mechanism for selectively maintaining the second rear wheel in a desired second-rear-wheel position within the dispenser. The first wheel barrier and the locking mechanism may selectively cooperate to physically prevent removal of the cart from the enclosure.

Apparatus for inserting a cart, such as a cart with one or more fixed wheels, into an enclosure

A dispenser having an interior portion that is dimensioned for receiving a wheeled cart that is configured for storing items to be dispensed from the dispenser. The cart may, for example, be supported by at least two non-swiveled wheels disposed adjacent a first end of the cart and at least one swiveled wheel disposed adjacent a second end of the cart. In particular embodiments, the dispenser includes a pivotable wheel support that is adapted for: (A) supporting the cart's non-swiveled wheels; and (B) while supporting these non-swiveled wheels in respective, substantially fixed positions relative to the pivotable wheel support, pivoting from: (1) a first position in which the cart is positioned outside the dispenser; to (2) a second position in which the cart is positioned within the dispenser's interior. This may assist in loading the cart into the dispenser.

ITEM DISPENSING APPARATUS

Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a dispenser configured for securely storing a plurality of items within a cart and providing access to a subset of the plurality of items to authorized users. According to various embodiments, the dispenser generally includes a housing defining an interior portion dimensioned to receive a storage cart having an array of receptacles each configured to hold one or more items, a laterally sliding access door configured to provide restricted access to the cart stored within the dispenser, and an item access mechanism configured to provide selective access to a subset of the plurality of items stored within the cart. The dispenser additionally comprises a cart guide mechanism and a cart locking mechanism configured to guide the cart into the housing and to secure the cart in an appropriate location within the housing for use with the item access mechanism.

Item dispensing apparatus

Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a dispenser configured for storing one or more items and dispensing the stored items to authorized users. According to various embodiments, the dispenser generally includes a housing defining an interior portion dimensioned to receive one or more items and a laterally sliding access door comprised of a flexible barrier configured to provide restricted access to items stored within the dispenser. In various embodiments, the dispenser also includes a biasing system configured bias the access door to a closed position.

Item dispensing apparatus

Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a dispenser configured for storing one or more items and dispensing the stored items to authorized users. According to various embodiments, the dispenser generally includes a housing defining an interior portion dimensioned to receive a plurality of items and an access assembly configured to prevent unauthorized user access to the interior portion of the dispenser while providing selective access to certain items in response to input received from an authorized user. According to various embodiments, the access assembly comprises a pair of flexible barriers coupled to a sliding door assembly, which includes one or more lockable access doors. Together, the door assembly and flexible barriers prevent access to the interior of the dispenser when in a locked configuration and permit access to certain items when in an unlocked configuration.

ITEM DISPENSING APPARATUS

Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a dispenser configured for storing one or more items and dispensing the stored items to authorized users. According to various embodiments, the dispenser generally includes a housing defining an interior portion dimensioned to receive one or more items and a laterally sliding access door comprised of a flexible barrier configured to provide restricted access to items stored within the dispenser. In various embodiments, the dispenser also includes a biasing system configured bias the access door to a closed position. 120.-. (canceled)21. A dispenser for storing one or more items and providing selective access to the items , the dispenser comprising:a housing defining an access opening and an interior portion dimensioned for receiving the one or more items;at least one support member disposed adjacent a linear perimeter portion of the access opening and extending at least substantially across the access opening from the access opening's first edge to the access opening's second edge; and ["at least one rigid member defining a leading edge of the slidable access door, wherein the rigid member is operatively connected to the housing and configured to slide between the access opening's first edge and the access opening's second edge; and", (i) a closed position in which the access door prevents access to one or more items stored within the interior portion of the housing through the access opening, and', '(ii) an open position in which the access door permits access to one or more items stored within the interior portion of the housing through the access opening., 'a sliding assembly operatively connecting the support member with the at least one support member to permit the access door to move to], 'a slidable access door disposed adjacent the access opening and configured for selectably blocking access through the access opening into the interior portion of the housing, the slidable access door comprising22. ...

Methods and apparatus for inserting a cart, such as a cart with one or more fixed wheels, into an enclosure

A method of loading a cart into an enclosure, according to various embodiments of the invention, comprises the steps of: (A) providing a cart having a first end and a second end, the cart comprising at least one swiveled wheel adjacent the first end, and at least two non-swiveled wheels adjacent the second end, the swiveled and non-swiveled wheels being adapted to facilitate the rolling movement of the cart over a surface; (B) positioning the at least two non-swiveled wheels on a wheeled platform so that the non-swiveled wheels are supported by the wheeled platform; and (C) while the non-swiveled wheels are supported by the wheeled platform, and while the at least one swiveled wheel is disposed on a support surface adjacent an interior portion of the enclosure, using the wheeled platform and the at least one swiveled wheel to roll the cart into the interior portion of the enclosure.

GUIDES AND OTHER APPARATUS FOR INSERTING A CART, SUCH AS A CART WITH ONE OR MORE FIXED WHEELS, INTO AN ENCLOSURE

Various embodiments of the wheel positioning assembly are adapted for facilitating the insertion of a cart into an enclosure. In certain embodiments, the cart comprises: (1) first and second fixed front wheels that are disposed adjacent opposite front lateral sides of the cart; and (2) first and second swiveled rear wheels disposed adjacent opposite lateral side of the cart. In various embodiments, the wheel positioning assembly comprises: (1) a first wheel guide for physically guiding the first, fixed front wheel into a desired first-front-wheel position in which the first front wheel is disposed within the dispenser and adjacent a first wheel barrier; and (2) a locking mechanism for selectively maintaining the second rear wheel in a desired second-rear-wheel position within the dispenser. The first wheel barrier and the locking mechanism may selectively cooperate to physically prevent removal of the cart from the enclosure.

Item dispensing apparatus

Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a dispenser configured for storing one or more items and dispensing the stored items to authorized users. According to various embodiments, the dispenser generally includes a housing defining an interior portion dimensioned to receive one or more items and a laterally sliding access door comprised of a flexible barrier configured to provide restricted access to items stored within the dispenser. In various embodiments, the dispenser also includes a biasing system configured bias the access door to a closed position.

ITEM DISPENSING APPARATUS

Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a dispenser configured for storing one or more items and dispensing the stored items to authorized users. According to various embodiments, the dispenser generally includes a housing defining an interior portion dimensioned to receive a plurality of items and an access assembly configured to prevent unauthorized user access to the interior portion of the dispenser while providing selective access to certain items in response to input received from an authorized user. According to various embodiments, the access assembly comprises a pair of flexible barriers coupled to a sliding door assembly, which includes one or more lockable access doors. Together, the door assembly and flexible barriers prevent access to the interior of the dispenser when in a locked configuration and permit access to certain items when in an unlocked configuration. 1. A dispenser for storing a plurality of items and providing selective access to the stored items , the dispenser comprising:a housing defining at least one access opening and at least one interior portion defining a plurality of item receptacles configured for storing one or more items, wherein the plurality of item receptacles are arranged in a grid defining item receptacle rows and item receptacle columns;an access assembly operatively connected to the housing and configured for permitting selective access to items disposed in the plurality of item receptacles, the access assembly comprising a moveable member defining one or more apertures, wherein the lateral and vertical position of the moveable member's one or more apertures is adjustable with respect to the plurality of receptacles to enable alignment of the one or more apertures with at least one item receptacle;wherein the access assembly is configured to selectively permit user access to at least one item receptacle aligned with at least one of the moveable member's one or more apertures and to prevent user ...

APPARATUS FOR INSERTING A CART, SUCH AS A CART WITH ONE OR MORE FIXED WHEELS, INTO AN ENCLOSURE

A dispenser having an interior portion that is dimensioned for receiving a wheeled cart that is configured for storing items to be dispensed from the dispenser. The cart may, for example, be supported by at least two non-swiveled wheels disposed adjacent a first end of the cart and at least one swiveled wheel disposed adjacent a second end of the cart. In particular embodiments, the dispenser includes a pivotable wheel support that is adapted for: (A) supporting the cart's non-swiveled wheels; and (B) while supporting these non-swiveled wheels in respective, substantially fixed positions relative to the pivotable wheel support, pivoting from: (1) a first position in which the cart is positioned outside the dispenser; to (2) a second position in which the cart is positioned within the dispenser's interior. This may assist in loading the cart into the dispenser. 1. A cart enclosure configured for housing a cart , the cart comprising a cart body , one or more front wheels secured to the cart body and one or more rear wheels secured to the cart body , the cart enclosure comprising:a housing defining an interior portion accessible through an access opening dimensioned for receiving the cart, the housing being configured for resting on a support surface; and a first platform configured for supporting the front wheels of the cart above the support surface when the cart is positioned within the interior portion of the housing, the first platform including one or more first load cells configured for measuring the weight supported by the first platform; and', 'a second platform configured for supporting the rear wheels of the cart above the support surface when the cart is positioned within the interior portion of the housing, the second platform including one or more second load cells configured for measuring the weight supported by the second platform; and', 'wherein the first platform is spaced a distance away from the second platform such that a portion of the support ...

Cart enclosure for weighing a cart inserted therein

A dispenser having an interior portion that is dimensioned for receiving a wheeled cart that is configured for storing items to be dispensed from the dispenser. The cart may, for example, be supported by at least two non-swiveled wheels disposed adjacent a first end of the cart and at least one swiveled wheel disposed adjacent a second end of the cart. In particular embodiments, the dispenser includes a pivotable wheel support that is adapted for: (A) supporting the cart's non-swiveled wheels; and (B) while supporting these non-swiveled wheels in respective, substantially fixed positions relative to the pivotable wheel support, pivoting from: (1) a first position in which the cart is positioned outside the dispenser; to (2) a second position in which the cart is positioned within the dispenser's interior. This may assist in loading the cart into the dispenser.

ITEM DISPENSING APPARATUS

Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a dispenser configured for securely storing one or more items and dispensing the stored items to authorized users. According to various embodiments, the dispenser generally includes a housing defining an interior area dimensioned to receive one or more items, a laterally sliding access door configured to provide restricted access to items stored within the dispenser, and one or more locking mechanisms designed to inhibit unauthorized access to the interior of the housing. In various embodiments, the dispenser is configured to accept a storage cart, and includes a plurality of guide walls located within the housing and configured to facilitate positioning of the cart within the interior area of the housing. 1. A dispenser for storing a moveable cart having a plurality of wheels and a cart body configured for storing one or more items , the dispenser comprising:a housing comprising one or more housing walls defining an access opening and an interior area dimensioned for receiving the moveable cart;an access door disposed adjacent the access opening, the access door configured for movement between (i) a closed position in which the access door prevents access to the cart when the cart is stored within the interior area of the housing and (ii) an open position in which the access door permits access to the cart when stored within the interior area of the housing; anda cart guide apparatus positioned substantially within the housing, the cart guide apparatus comprising one or more guide walls configured to engage the cart body and guide the moveable cart to a loaded position within the interior area of the housing, wherein the one or more guide walls permit a user to move the moveable cart into the interior area of the housing without engaging the one or more housing walls.2. The dispenser of claim 1 , wherein the one or more guide walls are disposed adjacent a lower perimeter of the housing's interior area.3. ...

Verfahren und vorrichtung zum erhöhen der ausgabegeschwindigkeit von artikeln in verkaufsautomaten

Aparato dispensador de artículos.

Varias modalidades de la presente invención se dirigen a un dispensador configurado para almacenar uno ambos artículos y dispensar los artículos almacenados a los usuarios autorizados. De acuerdo con varias modalidades, el dispensador incluye generalmente a un alojamiento que define una porción interior dimensionada para recibir uno más artículos y una puerta de acceso que se desliza lateralmente comprendida de una barrera flexible configurada para proveer acceso restringido a los artículos almacenados dentro del dispensador. En varias modalidades, el dispensador también incluye un sistema de impulsión configurado para impulsar la puerta de acceso a una posición cerrada.

Item dispensing apparatus

Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a dispenser configured for storing one or more items and dispensing the stored items to authorized users. According to various embodiments, the dispenser generally includes a housing defining an interior portion dimensioned to receive one or more items and a laterally sliding access door comprised of a flexible barrier configured to provide restricted access to items stored within the dispenser. In various embodiments, the dispenser also includes a biasing system configured bias the access door to a closed position.

Item dispensing apparatus

Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a dispenser configured for storing one or more items and dispensing the stored items to authorized users. According to various embodiments, the dispenser generally includes a housing defining an interior portion dimensioned to receive one or more items and a laterally sliding access door comprised of a flexible barrier configured to provide restricted access to items stored within the dispenser. In various embodiments, the dispenser also includes a biasing system configured bias the access door to a closed position.

Item dispensing apparatus

Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a dispenser configured for storing one or more items and dispensing the stored items to authorized users. According to various embodiments, the dispenser generally includes a housing defining an interior portion dimensioned to receive one or more items and a laterally sliding access door comprised of a flexible barrier configured to provide restricted access to items stored within the dispenser. In various embodiments, the dispenser also includes a biasing system configured bias the access door to a closed position.

Methods and apparatus for increasing the speed of dispensing articles from vending machines

Improvements to increase the speed at which a vending machine can dispense articles are disclosed. In various embodiments, the machine defines plural first arrays of receptacles for receiving articles with the first arrays stacked so that adjacent receptacles in the first arrays form second arrays. A separate user door closes each first array of receptacles, a slot door assembly provides a plurality of receptacle doors operative to open a particular receptacle when the user door is unlocked, and a slot access mechanism provides access to a particular receptacle. The machine waits a specified time period after dispensing to detect whether a subsequent user request is received. If a subsequent user request is received, the machine moves the slot access mechanism directly to a receptacle where the articles are available. Additional improvements include procedures for avoiding problems caused by misaligned doors and procedures for providing optimal article stocking.

Increasing the speed of dispensing articles from vending machines

Improvements to increase the speed at which a vending machine can dispense articles are disclosed. In various embodiments, the machine defines plural first arrays of receptacles for receiving articles with the first arrays stacked so that adjacent receptacles in the first arrays form second arrays. A separate user door closes each first array of receptacles, a slot door assembly provides a plurality of receptacle doors operative to open a particular receptacle when the user door is unlocked, and a slot access mechanism provides access to a particular receptacle. The machine waits a specified time period after dispensing to detect whether a subsequent user request is received. If a subsequent user request is received, the machine moves the slot access mechanism directly to a receptacle where the articles are available. Additional improvements include procedures for avoiding problems caused by misaligned doors and procedures for providing optimal article stocking.

Verfahren und Vorrichtung zum Erhöhen der Ausgabegeschwindigkeit von Artikeln in Verkaufsautomaten